Voting ends in Punjab and Goa; Punjab 66% turnout; Goa 83%

The voting for assembly elections in Punjab and Goa has come to an end, at 5 PM today. According to Election Commission, voters who just arrived at 5 PM can still cast their votes. However, majority of voters have already cast their votes during the day. Initially, the voter turnout was just a trickle in the morning hours, but it picked up pace later during the day. Initial reports reveal that Goa has registered a massive 83% turnout till 5 PM today. Voter turnout in Punjab has also been good at 66% till 4 AM. Since voting has started an hour late in Punjab due to bad weather, voter turnout here is expected to touch around 70-75% when the final reports come in.

Polling in both Punjab and Goa has largely been peaceful. No major incidences were reported during the day, except for a few heated words between rival groups. As for the voters, many polling booths witnessed long queues, which was a bit problematic for voters. Also, some polling booths encountered technical glitches, due to which, people had to wait a tad longer than usual. In Goa, voters would be electing a 40 member assembly whereas in Punjab, it will be a 117 member assembly. The polls in Punjab and Goa have not yet revealed any top favorites and it’s a tough fight between BJP, Congress, AAP, and other political groups.